Bodega on Central

Where to start with a place so close to my heart. Bodega was one of the first restaurants I got to try when I moved to St. Petersburg, FL. I originally was hoping to land in Miami. I was so excited about the abundance of Latin food. But, the universe had other plans. I knew in Miami my love for Latin food would be fulfilled. I never realized I would be just as satisfied in St. Pete! After that first time at Bodega, I was hooked! Everything is always fresh and made to order. Most people go for the amazing Cuban sandwiches with Cuban bread to die for. The crispy outside, yet, soft inside that makes you believe in heaven on earth. You can even get oil on the outside if that's your kind of thing. Offering sweets like they're pastelitos and tons of other options with plenty of flavor.

They keep your bio-individuality in mind too by offering vegetarian and vegan options. I love getting the tempeh sandwich! Tempeh is fermented soybeans. I know sounds totally gross, but, it's really good for you and tastes great with the spicy slaw they add on top. The portions are always perfect. You can order one sandwich and be full after half. Who doesn't love left overs? That is if you can contain yourself from all of the goodness. I've definitely scarfed down a whole one a time or two. No judgement here.

Not only do they have amazing food. They also offer juice that is said to nourish not only the body, but, the heart and soul as well. Giving customers multiple options of fresh juice and smoothies with fun names. A couple of my favorites are "The Greengo" a juice loaded with kale, apple, cucumber, cilantro and guarapo and "Kale-ing Me Softly" a smoothie with kale, banana, honey, pineapple, and coconut water. With the latter you can even sing your order! Take it old school. Those that want a more adult drink can get that too. Beer, wine, and even a few mixed drinks make it so your time will definitely leave you feeling fine.

Even the story of how this place came into existence is pretty cool. A couple from Brooklyn, Debbie and George Sayegh, decided they were hungry for something different in the area and found a way to create it. George experienced culinary training in Miami giving him a love of Latin food. With nothing quite up to the standard in St. Petersburg, they filled the void with their creation. Finding the perfect spot in the EDGE District for a tiny space to serve the community. Which is exactly what they do providing a healthy local option to anyone who gets the pleasure of walking down Central Avenue in downtown St. Pete. It started as a little hole in the wall referred to as, "the little box that packs big flavor". It packed so much flavor that they opened another location and moved the first to a much bigger space. So they started from the box now they here. The new building has amazing historic architecture too. You can enjoy the view outside while watching all the different types of people and dogs enjoy they're stroll down Central Avenue.

If you are ever in St. Pete or the Tampa Bay area you have to check it out. You will even be able to see the old location and how far they've come. Not only your taste buds, but, your body, mind, and soul will thank you! From the words of George and Debbie Sayegh, "It is important to us to serve food we love. The food we serve our family. The food should speak for itself without the fluff. We invite everyone to come, relax, and enjoy." Believe me the food does speak for itself! It is the perfect environment to relax and enjoy with outdoor seating and a vibe that makes sure you know everyone is welcome. This is totally a place that makes you want to eat local. I feel grateful to be a local every single time I leave.